light pollution

noun

: light from cities, vehicles, etc., that makes it difficult to see things in the sky (such as stars) at night

Full Definition of LIGHT POLLUTION

: artificial skylight (as from city lights) that interferes especially with astronomical observations

See light pollution defined for English-language learners

1971

Next Word in the Dictionary: light pressurePrevious Word in the Dictionary: light plotAll Words Near: light pollution

What made you want to look up light pollution? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears